n. 1 a mental feeling (the sentiment of pity). 2 a the sum of what one feels on some subject. b a verbal expression of this. 3 the expression of a view or desire esp. as formulated for a toast (concluded his speech with a sentiment). 4 an opinion as distinguished from the words meant to convey it (the sentiment is good though the words are injudicious). 5 a view or tendency based on or coloured with emotion (animated by noble sentiments). 6 such views collectively, esp. as an influence (sentiment unchecked by reason is a bad guide). 7 the tendency to be swayed by feeling rather than by reason. 8 a mawkish tenderness. b the display of this. 9 an emotional feeling conveyed in literature or art.
[ ME f. OF sentement f. med.L sentimentum f. L sentire feel ]